Stiftung Warentest Reaffirms finanzen.net ZERO as Cost Champion

Stiftung Warentest has once again declared finanzen.net ZERO the price-performance leader among German online brokers. In its December 2025 issue, the consumer testing organisation confirmed the brokerage's status as 'cost winner', a title it previously held in November 2024 and earlier editions.

The platform offers trading in stocks, ETFs, funds, derivatives and cryptocurrencies without depot or custody fees. Order commissions start at zero euros, though a standard market spread applies. For very small orders the broker charges a €1 minimum-quantity surcharge.

According to the test, investors who switch from the most expensive competitors to a budget broker like finanzen.net ZERO could cut their annual fee burden by up to €814. The comparison accounts for typical transaction patterns, including depot management and per-order charges.

The group also highlights the range of more than 10,000 free savings plans that can be started with as little as €1 per contribution, flexibly scheduled. Crypto trading is offered 24/7 with no additional custody or foreign-cost surcharges.

What the Test Result Means for Cost-Conscious Investors

The German Broker Price War Intensifies

The repeated award underscores how quickly zero-commission trading has become the industry baseline in Germany. While the up to €814 saving figure grabs attention, it rests on a modelled comparison with the dearest providers – your actual saving depends on how many and what kind of orders you place. A casual ETF saver may see smaller absolute benefits than an active stock trader.

Spreads and the €1 Floor Still Shape Real Costs

Although order fees are waived, every trade bears a market spread. For highly liquid blue chips the spread is negligible, but for crypto or niche assets it can widen, effectively acting as a hidden cost. The €1 minimum order charge can also chip away at savings if you regularly trade tiny amounts or fractional shares.

Service Quality Not Tested

Stiftung Warentest's evaluation focuses purely on published prices. Execution speed, order routing quality, data security and customer support are not part of this cost comparison. The brokerage points to 4.7‑star app ratings and endorsements from publications like Handelsblatt and Finanztip, but those reflect user experience rather than formal testing.

Three Things to Check Before You Switch

  • Compare your current fee structure. The Stiftung Warentest model saved up to €814 yearly versus the priciest competitors. If you pay depot fees or high per‑order commissions, your personal gap could be substantial.
  • Account for the €1 minimum on tiny trades. If you routinely invest small amounts, the floor charge could offset the benefit of zero‑commission advertising. Check whether your typical transaction size would trigger it.
  • Verify savings‑plan coverage. The broker lists over 10,000 free savings plans starting at €1. Confirm that the ETFs and stocks you want to accumulate are among them before funding an account.
  • Consider spreads on harder‑to‑trade assets. For 24/7 crypto or illiquid derivatives, compare the effective spread with other venues – a zero‑fee order can still be expensive if the spread is wide.